Skip to main content
Advertising

Day 7 Training Camp Observations

mariota600-080715.jpg


NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Day Seven of training camp is in the books for the Titans. Here's a look at five things that stood out:

**

Mariota's day:** Quarterback Marcus Mariota had another mistake-free day, completing 9-of-17 passes without an interception. Through seven practices, Mariota still hasn't thrown a pick. Defenders are getting tired of being asked about it. Mariota's best period came when he connected with receivers Harry Douglas, Kendall Wright and Hakeem Nicks in team drills. Earlier, he tucked the ball and busted up the middle on a long run. It's been a smooth start to camp for the draft's second overall pick, but he's had a few hiccups. Mariota threw four straight incompletions during one drill – the longest streak I can remember in camp – and he sailed a few balls. But there's no question he's ahead of schedule in camp, and his streak without an interception is especially impressive.

Great catch: Receiver Justin Hunter continues to catch the ball well, and in traffic. Hunter had the catch of the day – and maybe of camp – on Friday when he spun around and made a one-handed grab with his left hand on a ball thrown by Mariota. Hunter is bigger, and should be sturdier across the middle. What I've been most impressed with is his ability to catch the ball with his hands, before the ball gets to his body. Hunters's made a number of catches in camp above his head when he's squeezed the football and kept defenders from knocking it away. He's had an occasional drop, but he's been pretty consistent.

**

Sleeper prospect:** Linebacker Yannik Cudjoe-Virgil is an interesting prospect who has made himself known in camp. An undrafted free agent out of Maryland, Cudjoe-Virgil has impressed me both with his physical style of play, and his coverage downfield. Behind starting outside linebackers Derrick Morgan and Brian Orakpo, Cudjoe-Virgil has a chance to make the team. He's in a competition with players like J.R. Tavai and Jonathan Massaquoi, among others. There are spots to be had for sure. Another undrafted free agent who's making plays in camp – cornerback Cody Riggs. He's tough, and physical.

Alumni visitors: The Titans opened up the facility to former players on Friday as part of an "Alumni Training Camp Watch Party", and some familiar faces showed up. Receiver Derrick Mason, tight end Frank Wycheck, guard Benji Olson, receiver Chris Sanders, safety Donnie Nickey, center Eugene Amano were among the players who attended. Former Titans defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz was also on hand. 

**

Injuries:** Fullback Connor Neighbors was scheduled for surgery after suffering a broken forearm in Thursday's practice. The team is looking for another body at the position. Tight end Delanie Walker didn't practice on Friday after getting 12 stitches on his left thumb following an injury on Thursday, but he said he hopes to be back practicing next week. Tackles Byron Bell (jaw) and Byron Stingily (concussion) also didn't practice Friday, but Bell said he planned to practice next week. Cornerback Jason McCourty didn't practice but is expected back either tomorrow or Monday.

Titans players take the field for training camp on Friday, Aug. 7, 2015 at Saint Thomas Sports Park. (AP Photos)

Related Content

Fan Zone

Titans + Nissan Stadium App presented by Verizon

Titans + Nissan Stadium App presented by Verizon

Stay up to date with team and stadium news, concert and event announcements, stream live Titans games and more!

Tennessee Titans Marketplace

Tennessee Titans Marketplace

A one-stop shop for Titans memorabilia, autographed items and more!

Tennessee Titans Email Newsletter

Tennessee Titans Email Newsletter

Get Titans news sent straight to your inbox.

Advertising